PENANG, 9 May 2024 – The recent collaborative visit to Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) by the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) presents a significant move in fostering collaboration in the field of education, particularly in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and digital content.

The USM School of Distance Education (SDE) has been a trailblazer in online education since its establishment in 1971. Conversely, the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) boasts a distinguished reputation as a premier institution in diplomatic studies and international relations.

During a meeting between USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, and Acting President of DAV, Dr. Pham Lan Dung, emphasis was given on the need for intensified cooperation between USM and DAV in areas of semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI), in aligning with Vietnam's strategic interests in technological advancement and innovation.

By harnessing the research and expertise in these areas at USM, Pham envisions a deeper collaboration with USM, including the possibility of USM offering short courses in relation to these fields for the staff of DAV.

In the following discussion between the Dean of SDE, Associate Professor Dr. Zulnaidi Yaacob and Pham, both parties highlighted the mutual recognition of each institution’s expertise and the potential for collaboration in various educational endeavours.

Pham expressed the intention of DAV to enhance academic exchange and cooperation with USM through SDE, particularly on ODL and digital content.

This would involve sending staff to USM to pursue postgraduate studies in the respective field. Additionally, both parties agreed on a joint seminar series and mobility activities covering International Relations, Public Policy, Heritage, and History.

Founded in 1959, DAV has played a pivotal role in shaping Vietnam's diplomatic landscape, nurturing diplomats, scholars, and leaders. Additionally, applying information technology in managing, teaching, and promoting digital transformation has also been a priority for DAV.

Others among the delegates from Vietnam who were present in the discussion included Dr. Vu Le Thai Hoang, Director-General of the Institute for Foreign Policy and Strategic Studies cum Dean of the Faculty of International Politics and Diplomacy, and Dr. Vu Thanh Huyen, a staff member from the Office of Testing and Quality Assurance of DAV.

SDE was also represented by the Deputy Dean (Research, Innovation & Industry Community Engagement), Associate Professor Dr. See Kok Fong; Deputy Registrar, Mohd Rashid Abdul Rejab; Chairperson of the History Section, Dr. Norizan Kadir; Dr. Sah-Hadiyatan Ismail; Dr. Zaharul Abdullah, and Dr. Ku Boon Dar.

Text: Dr. Ku Boon Dar, SDE USM/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin